A Weekend In Newport, RI

Newport is the ideal place for a peaceful getaway if you’re looking to swap your usual backdrop of skyscrapers with the calming sight of waves crashing on rocks. It’s relatively straightforward getting there from NYC if you rent a car, although a car isn’t totally necessary to get around during your stay in Newport (taking an Uber is always an option).

I’ve been to Newport twice with my boyfriend, and both times we stayed at Gurney’s Newport Resort & Marina. You can’t beat Gurney’s location, which is conveniently centered near downtown and in walking distance of basically everything. The resort is also surrounded by a marina and has an outdoor pool and bar, which we made sure to enjoy. There’s even a Scarpetta located on site, in addition to two other restaurants. The hotel is a little on the older side and could use a facelift, but we still found it to be well worth it for its amenities and location.

If you do find yourself wandering outside of Gurney’s, definitely make sure to book a boat tour in town. It’s a great way to learn about the history of Newport and get a tan while you’re at it. Throw in some mimosas and you’re all set (you can book a specific tour that offers mimosas on deck).

The Cliff Walk is a 3.5-mile scenic walking trail along some of Newport’s most coveted real estate and is a must-do. Most of it is easy to navigate except for the last portion that is unpaved and requires extra caution. If a leisurely stroll is more your thing, just walk the beginning stretch, which will lead you to the famous Forty Steps on Narragansett Avenue. You can get off the walkway at multiple exit points, depending on which mansions and historic sites are on your bucket list. We Ubered to the Cliff Walk, but there’s also some parking in the beach lot at the beginning of the trail.

Me and my boyfriend at The Lawn at Castle Hill Inn

The dining scene is just as refreshing as the seaside experience. The Lawn Restaurant at Castle Hill Inn is an absolute must for a romantic night in Newport — make sure to book your reservation a few weeks in advance and aim to go during sunset. I highly recommend getting drinks on the lawn before or after dinner for the full effect. The Mooring Seafood Kitchen & Bar is another favorite; we went there for both a romantic dinner in their outdoor patio and for a lobster roll lunch at the bar. If you’re looking for an upscale steakhouse vibe, Bowens 22 is your place (get the truffle Mac side).

Go to Stoneacre for brunch, The Reef for the best lobster roll in town, Bar and Board for the cod, and Scales & Shells for yummy seafood pastas (get the Lobster Fra Diavolo for two). Diego’s is a great Mexican spot for lunch in town, and Fluke is a delicious seafood restaurant with water views. Scales & Shells and Fluke don’t have outdoor seating. For oysters and wine, I’d go to the Clarke Cooke House.

For drinks, we only made it to the The Pineapple Club at Gurney’s, which is great for something casual and no frills. We were recommended the rooftop bar at Hotel Viking and Newport Vineyard. At the Vineyard, skip the tasting room and opt for wine and cheese at the bar.

A Weekend in Newport, RI